Located 40 miles east of San Diego, this 25,000 acre park within the peninsular mountain range was once a seasonal home for local Kumeyaay Indians, as will as part of a Mexican land grant. The state park attracts local San Diegans for day trips or long weekends. More than 100 miles of hiking, horse, and mountain biking trails spiderweb the park, which also includes 6,512-foot Cuyamaca Park and its infinite views.

Gentle streams, abundant oak and pine forests, vast meadowlands, 200 bird species, and myriad wildflowers enliven the scenery. The Stonewall Mine site holds the ruins of the mine and a reconstructed miner’s cabin housing a historical display.

Bordering the state park, Lake Cuyamaca is a popular boating and fishing spot. The 110 acre lake is stocked with more than 44,000 pounds of Trout, Florida bass, channel catfish, crappie, bluegill, sturgeon, and other species.